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| Background In recent years, independent publishing has established itself as a cultural phenomenon. For illustrators, independent publishing serves as a means to showcase an artist's individuality and worldview, effectively playing a role in their portfolio. While research and case studies on independent bookstores and publishing have seen an increase in South Korea since the mid-2010s, there remains a lack of comprehensive studies on independent publications related to comics and illustrations from the creator's perspective within the realm of image-based publishing.
Methods In theoretical research, a literature review was conducted, primarily focusing on papers and monographs to establish the concept of artists’ books. For case studies, investigations were carried out on independent publications featuring images, including illustrations and comics, as well as artists primarily engaged in independent publishing. In the process of creating the artwork, variations of the original work "The Fairy and the Woodcutter“ were examined. Based on this, an examination was conducted to explore the outcomes resulting from the distribution of reimagined characters, narrative structures, and finalized works through independent bookstore consignments within the artist books produced on this foundation.
Result The contemporary adaptation of “The Fairy and the Woodcutter,” which reinterprets traditional folklore, in “The Fairy and the Fried Shrimp,” received an immediate response, primarily from international consumers, through U.S. independent bookstores and the artist's online store. In contrast, a relatively slower response rate was observed in South Korean independent bookstores. The underlying reasons for these results are believed to be influenced by factors such as the tendencies of independent bookstores, the artist, the artwork, and the cultural background of consumers.
Conclusion The process in which individual artists, free from the constraints of commercial publishing companies, handle everything from planning to production and sales allows illustrators to maintain artistic spirit and autonomy. Additionally, it has a positive effect on creating publications that encompass both the artist's perspective and personality, enabling direct and indirect communication with the public. However, limitations include not having complete freedom in the stocking process at independent bookstores for distribution. Furthermore, secondary promotion through exhibitions, fairs, and competitions is essential for generating revenue beyond sales. |
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| Key Words |
| 일러스트레이션, 독립출판, 아티스트 북, Illustration, Independent Publishing, Artists’Books |
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